Aloo Ki Khichdi

Aloo ki Khichdi is a simple and comforting one-pot dish made with rice, lentils, and potatoes. It's a popular North Indian dish that is easy to prepare and wholesome. It is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a winter day. It is made with rice, potatoes, and spices, and is cooked in a flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup basmati rice
  • 1/2 cup yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)
  • 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or cooking oil
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
  • Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Rinse Rice and Lentils:

    • Rinse basmati rice and moong dal in cold water. Soak them in water for about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Sautéing:

    • Heat ghee or oil in a pressure cooker or a heavy-bottomed pot. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
    • Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become golden brown.
  3. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:

    • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
  4. Add Potatoes:

    • Add diced potatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
  5. Add Tomatoes:

    • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate from the masala.
  6. Add Spices:

    • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  7. Add Rice and Lentils:

    • Drain the soaked rice and lentils and add them to the pot. Mix well with the spice mixture.
  8. Cooking:

    • Add 4 cups of water to the pot. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
    • Once boiling, cover the pressure cooker or pot with a lid. If using a pressure cooker, cook for 2-3 whistles. If using a pot, simmer on low heat until rice and lentils are fully cooked and the khichdi has a porridge-like consistency.
  9. Garnish:

    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
  10. Serve:

    • Aloo ki Khichdi is ready to be served. Serve it hot with yogurt, pickles, or lemon wedges if desired.

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, you can add 1/2 cup of yogurt or sour cream to the khichdi.
  • You can adjust the amount of chili powder to your desired level of spiciness.
  • Aloo ki khichdi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Aloo ki Khichdi is a wholesome and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a complete meal. Adjust the spice levels and consistency according to your preference.